Editorial: Take a moment to honor a veteran

No soldier directly affected by that solitary moment 92 years ago in a railroad car near Compiegne, France, is still alive.

But that armistice agreement that went into effect at 11 a.m., Nov. 11, 1918, serves as an annual reminder that achieving lasting world peace is a goal that still eludes us.

At the time the agreement was signed, no previous conflict had led to so many deaths and so many casualties and involved so many nations. The Great War, as it would be known until the onslaught of Nazi Germany, was thought at its conclusion to be the "war to end all wars."

Far from it.

As those who gather this morning here and elsewhere know all too well, the 1918 Versailles Treaty was merely a harbinger of massive bloodshed: World War II, Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm, Iraq, Afghanistan ...

Veterans of those wars -- regardless of the "popularity" of the conflicts -- nevertheless share a common trait: They all survived them, at least physically. And whether the rest of us agreed with why these men and women were sent into harm's way, we as Americans must join in our gratitude for their service.

It's likely that most of us know not only a current veteran, but one who will be one someday. That's why youngsters, who are most likely spending their Sunday eyes glued to the iPad watching yet-another vampire vs. werewolf video today, also should be introduced to why they have the day off. Some quiet moments down in front of the Yolo County Courthouse -- where there is a tribute to veterans; or even a couple minutes of silence at 11 a.m. at the Woodland Cemetery or Monument Hill Memorial Park, would be welcome.

In past years there have been ceremonies at the Yolo County Courthouse or local cemeteries on weekdays. This year ceremonies are set for 11 a.m., today in front of the Yolo County Courthouse, 725 Court St. in Woodland.

Nonetheless, one doesn't need a formal ceremony to honor those who have served their country. A kind word, a few moments of silent respect will do.

The California Department of Veterans Affairs reminds us that each year more than 30,000 veterans are returning to this state from deployments around the globe, including in combat zones.

These veterans are often finding upon their return what their fellow Californians live through every day -- a state with enormous economic problems and high unemployment. Add to those issues, health or other physical ailments from their deployments, and you might begin to grasp the level of their sacrifices and what we owe them.

This country has just gone through a divisive election for president. Yet, it was done peacefully, without violence or bloodshed. Had Mitt Romney won over Barack Obama, the transfer of power would have occurred without incident as dictated by our Constitution. That's a marvelous thing. Truly remarkable. We can thank our military service members for ensuring that one of the world's greatest countries is able to accomplish this feat every four years without bloodshed.